Statement by the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Occasion of the Governor General's Awards in Visual and Media Arts

Created in 1999 by the Canada Council for the Arts and the Governor
General, these awards are presented to Canadian artists who demonstrate
excellence and creativity in various disciplines.

Our government knows that the arts and culture are important drivers of
economic growth, create jobs and are a source of wealth for our
communities. The arts and culture industry in Canada generates close to
$50 billion in economic activity and employs more than 630,000 people.

Individuals and organizations dedicated to the arts are behind the
cultural and economic development of our communities and enrich the
quality of life of all Canadians. It is therefore with great pleasure
that I congratulate the 2014 winners:

Thanks to the dedication of artists such as these, Canada's creative
genius shines not only here, but around the globe. I also want to take
this opportunity to commend the Canada Council for the Arts, which
presents these prestigious awards annually, on its excellent work.

SOURCE Canadian Heritage

For further information:

(media only), please contact:

Marisa Monnin Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages 819-997-778